An entertaining entrepreneur

Thespian, entrepreneur, entertainer, and friend. These are just a few words that describe celebrated Christchurch actor Peter Rowley. Metropol’s Kia Dirkson caught up with him to see what is the next phase for one of the country’s most enduring comedians. On a bright summer afternoon, a warm smile greeted me at the door. The charming […]

Colouring our world

Colour, pattern and design are all hallmarks of Christchurch business woman Vicki Ogden-O’Fee. Metropol editor Lynda Papesch talks with her about the how and why. Surviving for more than three decades in the cut and thrust of the hair, beauty and fashion industry is no mean feat. Expanding and diversifying a multi-layered business in the […]

Print and paper: facts vs fiction

Paper has proven an integral part of our lives since it was invented, sometime between 50 and 120 AD, primarily to record data and to keep knowledge safe for generations. Centuries down the track, magazines such as fortnightly lifestyle magazine Metropol are still doing just that, despite misconceptions that paper is wasteful, detrimental to the […]

Autumn air

The last of the warming summer sun is about to say goodbye, and chilly autumn days are soon to take its place. The in-between seasons are always a struggle to get right in the wardrobe department, often we still have nice warm weather for weeks after summer, and then the sudden chill hits, catching bare […]

Secrets to skincare

The beauty industry is booming, and full of an overwhelming amount of advice and claims on how to achieve flawless, smooth and wrinkle-free skin. Educating yourself on what ingredients, products and techniques work for your skin is the very best tool you can have. Here are a few to consider. Vitamin C The ingredient synonymous […]

Causing a stir

As we hold on to the last of summer, the longer nights, and delicious seasonal fresh fruit available, the need for hydration often leads us to the mixers and result in high spirits. However, to get the best out of our cocktail concoctions, there are a few necessities when it comes to building your own […]

Green goodness lemon & parmesan risotto: Annabel Langbein

Courtesy of BELLA, Annabel Langbein Ingredients 3 tbsp butter or neutral oil 2 onions, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1½ cups risotto rice ½ cup white wine 6 cups hot vegetable stock, plus a little extra if needed 1 tsp salt ground black pepper, to taste 4 handfuls baby spinach leaves 2 cups frozen […]

Keeping flowers fresh

Cutting flower stems and pruning the leaves before putting them into a vase, watering them every few days, and keeping them away from direct sunlight, heat, drafts and fruits, all ensure they’re fresher longer. Nick Drewe, trends specialist at UK’s WeThrift says raiding the cupboards may be just as beneficial to your blooms. Check these […]

The dark side

Looking for a wintry interior update? Swap white walls for dark moody hues for the perfect cosy transformation. Going to the dark side can feel intimidating, but dark schemes are a great backdrop for furniture and art and can create a warm, inviting space. Dark shades add drama and grandeur to a home, and heading […]

Meet Metropol’s motoring writer

Ever since I can remember, I have always been utterly fascinated with all things automotive. My mother loved to tell others that her two-year-old son would sit at the bus stop and call out the make of just about every car which went past. During my school years, I developed a keen interest in English […]